Walter Payton passed away on 1999-11-01 at the age of 45. A former professional football player, most famously known for his time spent with the Chicago Bears, Walter was born in Columbia, Mississippi, in 1954. He grew up playing football and baseball and went on to have a stellar football career at Jackson State University. Walter was drafted by the Chicago Bears in 1975, where he achieved fame and national recognition as one of the greatest professional football players and running backs of all time. During his 13-year long career with the Bears, Payton was selected to the Pro Bowl nine times and won the Player of the Year award in 1977. He set multiple records, which still stand today, including most career rushing yards, carries, and total yards. He was the first NFL player to break the 20,000 total yards club. Walter Payton was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1993 and the College Football Hall of Fame in 1996. He also played an active role in the community, helping to fund and construct the Walter Payton Museum and Library, an organization that supports students receiving secondary education. At the time of his death, Walter faced complicated and lengthy medical issues. Walter was a beloved husband, a loyal friend, and an inspirational athlete who will be remembered fondly. He will be greatly missed but his spirit will live on forever in the hearts of all who knew and admired him.